On a poignant milestone marking 1,000 days since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine, Metropolitan Epiphaniy of Kyiv addressed the resilience and courage of the Ukrainian people in the face of relentless aggression. His message, shared on social media, reflects the pain, perseverance, and unwavering determination of a nation under siege.
Metropolitan Epiphaniy described the past 1,000 days and nights as a period filled with danger, alarms, pain, and loss, but also as a testament to Ukraine’s unyielding spirit. “Despite everything, we have endured, we defend ourselves, we believe, we aspire, and we do our utmost to bring our hard-fought victory closer,” he stated.
He emphasized the relentless attacks by Russia, highlighting the hatred and rage of the Kremlin’s forces directed at Ukraine’s civilian population. Yet, the Metropolitan declared that the actions of the Kremlin’s “tyrant” have only solidified the inevitability of his defeat. “Breaking Ukrainians is impossible. Deceiving us is impossible. Subjugating us is impossible. Convincing us to capitulate or abandon our independent future is impossible,” he said.
Metropolitan Epiphaniy also drew attention to the broader dimensions of this war, describing it as a hybrid conflict targeting not only Ukraine’s sovereignty but also its education, science, culture, history, and even the Church. He painted a picture of Russian aggression as a battle against all things Ukrainian, seeking to eradicate the nation’s identity at every level.
While the enemy wields weapons of hatred, lies, and treachery, the Metropolitan highlighted Ukraine’s arsenal: unity, truth, faith, and love for its homeland and people.
Metropolitan Epiphaniy called on Ukrainians to remain spiritually strong and unyielding, referring to the war as a battle against the “modern Antichrist.” He reminded his followers of the divine support that has sustained Ukraine through this struggle, saying, “With God’s help, we have endured. The Lord did not let us fall, and with His strength, we will continue to defend ourselves against the frenzied occupier and tyrant.”
The Metropolitan concluded his message with a rallying cry of hope and determination: “With God – to Victory!”
